Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — In an unprecedented transfer, Tanzanian authorities have quickly shut down 5 hydroelectric stations to handle an oversupply of electrical energy within the nationwide grid.
This choice was introduced by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, highlighting a uncommon situation of extra energy ensuing from the nation’s latest infrastructural developments and environmental situations.
The prime minister particularly identified the Mwalimu Nyerere Hydroelectric Station, which has generated ample electrical energy to produce main cities like Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s business capital.
This plant alone, with a capability of two,115 MW, has contributed considerably to the present surplus, because of the reservoir nearing full capability following early heavy rainfall this yr.
An official from the state-run energy firm, Tanesco, defined the scenario: “We have turned off all these stations as a result of the demand is low and the electrical energy manufacturing is an excessive amount of, we’ve got no allocation now.”
This marks the primary occasion in Tanzania, a rustic that has traditionally confronted power energy shortages, the place hydroelectric stations have been closed because of extra manufacturing.
The surplus comes at a time when East Africa is grappling with excessive climate situations, which have led to important lack of life and harm in neighboring international locations like Kenya. In Tanzania, the heavy rains have additionally been linked to at the least 58 fatalities.
The shutdown of those hydroelectric stations underscores a turning level for Tanzania, reflecting each the challenges and alternatives related to managing a burgeoning power sector.
This growth poses questions on future power methods and the balancing act between manufacturing and consumption in gentle of fluctuating climate patterns and financial calls for.
https://www.africanexponent.com/tanzania-switches-off-plants-due-to-excess-power/